This ruggedly scenic park includes rainforest, eucalypt forest, beaches, rocky headlands covered in hoop pines, and volcanic rock formations. Visitors can camp and bushwalk. A marine park adjoins.

Diverse habitats are protected in the 1074.85ha Cape Hillsborough National Park, one of the most ruggedly beautiful parks on the Central Queensland coast. Lowland rainforest and vine forest grow along creeks, valleys and hillside gullies. Rocky hills and headlands support open eucalypt forest and a grassy understorey, while patches of low heath survive on exposed slopes. West of the day-use area, a large mangrove community is an important breeding ground for marine animals.

On the broad beaches, sand bubbler crabs leave intricate patterns at low tide, and many sea creatures shelter in tidal rock pools. Surrounding waters are part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Large rhyolite boulders scattered over the headlands and beaches are a reminder of volcanic activity millions of years ago, as are volcanic plugs and other striking rock formations found in the park.

The Yuibera people lived in this area for thousands of years and signs of their special connection to the area are still present. Explorer James Cook named Cape Hillsborough during his voyage up the Queensland coast in 1770.